Zoho CRM vs Salesforce: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Zoho CRM and Salesforce comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Zoho CRM
CRM for sales and marketing teams
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Zoho CRM is a sales CRM platform for managing customer relationships
- • It provides lead management, automation, and analytics
Salesforce
The #1 CRM platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.6/10)
- • The world's #1 CRM platform
- • Enterprise-grade with endless customization
| At a Glance |  Zoho CRM |  Salesforce |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Marketing Automation | Marketing Automation |
Rating | 86/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | Zoho CRM | Salesforce |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Marketing AutomationCRM | Marketing AutomationCRM |
How Zoho CRM and Salesforce Compare
Zoho CRM
CRM for sales and marketing teams
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Salesforce
The #1 CRM platform
Paid · 88/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Zoho CRM has a free tier. Salesforce is paid only.
Go with: Zoho CRM
Want the highest-rated option?
Zoho CRM: 86/100. Salesforce: 88/100.
Go with: Salesforce
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Salesforce
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Zoho CRM is freemium. Salesforce is paid. Zoho CRM lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are marketing automation tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Salesforce scores higher: 88/100 vs 86/100.
Key Takeaways
Salesforce
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 86
- Our pick for this comparison
Zoho CRM
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Salesforce (88/100) is our pick. Zoho CRM has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Zoho CRM or Salesforce better?
Salesforce scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Zoho CRM is freemium and Salesforce is paid.
What are Zoho CRM and Salesforce used for?
Zoho CRM: CRM for sales and marketing teams. Salesforce: The #1 CRM platform.
What does Zoho CRM cost vs Salesforce?
Zoho CRM is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Salesforce is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.